Images from Japan, Asia, and the US Southwest

Plums

Plum blossums pose an interesitng photographic challenge. Unlike the mercurial cherry that bursts forth and dissipates with equal rapidity, plums appear more reserved and delicate. Viewed from afar, a blooming plum tree may lack the visceral punch of a cherry at its peak. But, plum flowers are hardy enough to bring reds and pinks into the otherwise grey pallet of late winter. Furthermore, the exposed plum branch often has an angular power not seen in trees with a more supple appeal. The trick is thus to capture the plum's understated strength.